Pole Bean (Princess Bean) King of the Belgians - organic seeds

Pole Bean (Princess Bean) King of the Belgians

The 'Koning der Belgen' is a traditional, early-maturing, and vigorous dwarf bean variety with long green pods and small black seeds. This variety is ideal for both early (open ground or under glass) and late sowing and should be harvested young for optimal taste and texture.

Growing Advice

Sowing

• Sow from May onwards, after the last frost, directly into warmed and moist soil.
• Use rows or planting holes at a depth of 2-3 cm.
• Prefers light, humus-rich soil and a sunny location.
• Avoid dry or poor soil to prevent tough, stringy beans.
• Sow every three weeks until mid-July for an extended harvest.

Care

• Earth up three weeks after emergence for better support.
• Water regularly during dry periods.

Common Diseases and Pests

• Powdery mildew → Ensure good ventilation and use plant extracts for prevention.
• Anthracnose (fungal disease) → Identified by brown spots on leaves and pods. Use healthy seeds and remove infected parts.
• Bean weevil → These pests feed on bean seeds. Store seeds in the freezer for a week as a preventive measure.

Harvest and Use

• Mangetout beans: Harvest every 4-5 days, from 2 months after sowing.
• Filet beans: Harvest every 2-3 days to prevent toughness.

Companion Planting

✅ Good companions: Squash, corn, peas, radish.
❌ Avoid: Allium plants such as onions and garlic.

Health Benefits

Dwarf beans are a great source of fiber, protein, vitamins, and minerals, making them a healthy addition to your diet.

Growing Tips

• Soak seeds for 12-24 hours before sowing for better germination.
• Dark-colored seeds germinate better at lower temperatures than white seeds.